HUSK

Artwork on Parasitic Relationships

February 2 – 24, 2018

Opening Reception:
First Friday Art Walk, February 2nd from 5 – 9pm

‘Me Too’ (detail) – by Beth Robinson and Annika Rundberg

The host/parasite relationship in nature is a strange, fascinating one. There are many reasons why this relationship exists, including population control, boosting immune response, aiding decomposition and supporting the food web. While most parasites do not kill their hosts, what compels those that do? In our culture, the word “parasite” has a decidedly negative connotation. Though literal parasites are seeking only to live, parasite/host relationships present between humans result in toxic power dynamics, financial instability, breakdowns of bodies and minds, and loss of benefit to both parties over time. The work in this exhibition was made to explore parasitic relationships in all their forms. Where do we get the energy we need to sustain ourselves? Are those sources sustainable or part of a system that ultimately depletes us? This group of female artists met over the course of six months to discuss their interpretations of the show concept. Each artist is exploring the theme from her own unique perspective. The work includes depictions of parasites in nature in addition to examinations of family dynamics, childbirth, beauty, sexuality, and dysfunctional relationships in the context of parasitism.